Undergoing labiaplasty surgery is a highly personal decision, but once you’ve decided that the procedure is right for you, you may have some questions about what recovery from labiaplasty will be like. Fortunately, labiaplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure; both the surgery itself and the recovery period take a minimal amount of time compared to more invasive or involved surgeries.
To keep you reassured through every step of the way, we’ve prepared this list of 4 things you should bear in mind for your recovery from labiaplasty surgery.
The recovery process is pretty intense and involved. Dr Dweck, a gynaecologist in Westchester County and the assistant clinical professor at Mt. Sinai School of Medicine, says the recuperation time and process are often very underestimated by people. Dweck often uses dissolvable stitches during the labiaplasty, so that nothing needs to be removed.
She also recommends a sitz bath to her patients. If the patients have the sitz bath, she also suggests that they use a hair dryer on a low setting to dry the area with cool air, this way moisture doesn’t stay there which lowers the chance of infection in the area.
Dr Dweck has her patients do that routine two or three times a day for at least a week or two. During the day she has them wear a tight garment so that nothing rubs against the area and at night loose garment is worn.
After that, she also has them come in for one or two follow-up visits to make sure the area is healing well. For more information on labiaplasty visit http://www.drpeterlaniewski.com.au/procedures/body/labiaplasty/ .
Some Mild Pain After Surgery
The labiaplasty surgery will be performed with anaesthesia, and you will feel little to no discomfort, but some mild post-op pain will most likely occur. It is surgery after all, and operating on a sensitive area like the labia will cause some discomfort. You will be given medication to help with your symptoms after your surgery, which you should take as instructed by your surgeon.
Swelling and Bruising Are Normal
It is perfectly normal—and almost guaranteed—that you will have swelling and/or bruising for a few weeks after surgery. If you experience discomfort while urinating, you can ease the pain either by urinating in the shower or by running warm water over the affected area as you pee. Additionally, icing the affected area can help reduce swelling (don’t apply directly to the skin—use cloth coverings). One side is always more swollen than the other.
Clothing & Feminine Hygiene
To minimise discomfort, you should wear loose-fitting underwear and clothing. Tighter clothing can result in rubbing, which will hurt and prolong recovery. Additionally, avoid using tampons during recovery. Make use of pads and liners until your doctor indicates otherwise.
Abstain from Sex
Yes, we know, you’re devastated. For six weeks following your surgery, you must, must, MUST abstain from sexual intercourse. After this time has passed, you may resume sexual activity as comfort permits, but consult with your doctor to be safe.
Final Tips
While patients can usually return to work in as little as 2 to 5 days, the full recovery and results of your labiaplasty surgery won’t be complete until four to six months afterwards. Be patient, follow all your surgeon’s instructions, and you will be pleased with the results!
